In his debut game against the Brisbane Lions last Friday, Barham was introduced to senior football with the task of opposing one of the Lions’ key playmakers in Luke Power.
Mick Malthouse has never been afraid to pit a first-gamer against an established star. He has done it many times over his coaching years. At first glance this seems like throwing kids to the wolves. On the upside it forces the inexperienced youngster, with a million things running through his mind, to focus his concentration on a specific task.
Barham’s job was to find Power at the stoppages or when the Lions had possession, but to then back himself to win the footy. Both players got the ball plenty of times – 28 touches apiece – normal for Power, but a great return from a first-gamer.
Barham proved that he has a couple of qualities that he can build a career on. Firstly he found the footy, a skill in itself, and secondly he had the run and pace to carry it in space away from the congestion.
Just as importantly Barham used his speed to chase hard from behind, which will always be a big plus in his value to the team. His kicking will need significant improvement, but overall it was a very eye-catching debut game.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL.
